This case study presents an intervention by university researchers, serving in the role of participant-observers, for the purpose of improving science education at a rural, economically disadvantaged elementary school. Interest in improving the school's science program stemmed from conversations between the principal and the two researchers. The principal was pleased that a number of instructional improvements were occurring at the school, but was disappointed with the quality of instruction in science. Owing to the university's commitment of service to the public schools in the state, the researchers accepted the challenge to assist in improving the school's science education program by working with the principal to solicit help from private corporations, and to collect baseline data through involving the school's stakeholders (teachers, students, and parents) in the process. (Author/WRM)